Tuesday, 13 January 2009

STAMPS

Stamp collecting isn't everyone's cup-o-tea, I've got a few kicking about. A first-day issue set of children's classic tv, and a set of ol Henry and his wives. Some of you avid jam readers will know I collect postcards - so I kind of appreciate stamps in the same way. Teeny bits of art or design. Anyway. A new set was released today, and it will definitely interest a few of you. British Design Classics. Here's whats included:Supermarine SpitfireThe superlative Battle of Britain fighter with its distinctive elliptical wings was designed by R J Mitchell who sadly died before the plane went into production.Mini SkirtMary Quant rewrote the fashion rules for women forever with her daring design.The MiniSir Alec Issigonis made use of every available space in the small car that was as much a fashion statement as a means of transport.Anglepoise LampGeorge Carwardine’s flexible design brought light wherever it was needed.ConcordeAerospatiale and BAC’s supersonic jet was capable of twice the speed of sound and beautiful to look at too.K2 Telephone KioskSir Giles Gilbert Scott’s design bright-red phone box always stood out on the streets of the UK.Polypropylene ChairFound in public buildings throughout the world, almost everyone will have sat on a Robin Day chair at some time.Penguin BooksEdward Young’s book jacket design was instantly recognizable as a Penguin edition.London Underground MapHarry Beck’s easy to understand design was based on an electrical wiring diagram.Routemaster BusOnce a symbol of London to visitors from all over the world now only a few of Douglas Scott and Colin Curtis’s remain on London’s streets.Click for gloriously large image (stolen from EDP). Info taken from royalmail.com.